Packers Get Positive Update on Jimmy Graham's Finger Injury

Things are looking up for Green Bay Packers tight end Jimmy Graham, who is eyeing a renaissance season under new head coach Matt LaFleur and his more open offense than the paleolithic scheme Mike McCarthy used to run.

Graham, who suffered a minor injury when he dislocated his finger in Sunday practice, will not require surgery and shouldn't miss any time.

In three seasons as a Seattle Seahawk, Graham failed to capture the elite status he had earned with Drew Brees and the New Orleans Saints. In his first year in Green Bay, during which he was asked to play against his strengths and be an in-line blocker, Graham recorded just 636 yards and two touchdowns.

LaFleur's offense, more favorable for a tight end with Graham's skill set, should lead to a pump in production. Graham could also give Aaron Rodgers the seam-busting tight end and red-zone weapon he has coveted over the last few seasons.

No list of "bounce back" candidates would be complete without Graham at or near the very top of the list. We might once again see the guy who was an All Pro with Sean Payton in New Orleans.